Private Practice Market Overview - Scotland
As the Scottish economy continues to thrive there is an ongoing demand within the large private practice firms for lawyers with niche specialisms such as construction, projects, banking and technology. As demand outstrips supply, many firms are very interested in recruiting candidates from elsewhere in the UK and other common law jurisdictions to fill their skills shortages.
One of the main attractions of working in Scotland is undoubtedly the ability to maintain a high quality of work and enjoy a better work/life balance. Whilst there will always be times when work demands take priority, Scottish firms can definitely deliver on that front, with most seeking to promote a healthy work/life balance.
Private Practice salaries
Salaries in Scotland are driven by the large commercial firms and with fierce competition between the firms there is very little difference in salaries between the main contenders.
Whilst salaries are lower than those in the London market, the cost of living in Scotland is substantially less and although property prices are relatively high in the city centres, other additional costs such as commuting and travel tend to be very low.
Lawyers who work for the top-tier firms will earn a good salary commensurate with their experience and can also expect additional benefits, both financial and non-financial. With the focus for many individuals on quality of life many firms are now looking at improving their benefits to reflect this.
Typical salaries are detailed below:
| Year of Qualification | Range | Typical |
| 2007 | 30,000-34,000 | 32,000 |
| 2006 | 33,000-37,000 | 35,000 |
| 2005 | 34,000-39,000 | 37,000 |
| 2004 | 39,000-44,000 | 42,000 |
| 2003 | 42,000-48,000 | 45,000 |
| 2002 | 46,000-55,000 | 52,000 |
For further information on the legal market and job opportunities in Scotland contact:
Erica MacKinnon
T: 0131 226 0640
E: ericamackinnon@taylorroot.com